The Chairman and Trustees of the Emma Molesworth Trust, in conjunction with Rutland County Council, are pleased to announce that applications have now opened for 2024/25 Emma Molesworth Trust Grants.

The Emma Molesworth Trust was established in 1966 to provide financial assistance to Rutland residents wishing to take a course in agriculture. The grant helps students by making a contribution towards the financial burden of today's education costs and may be awarded for:

• course materials and equipment
• travel to college or university
• accommodation
• course fees
• special course-related projects, like field trips and work placements

Councillor Andrew Brown, Chairman of the Emma Molesworth Trust, said: "We are delighted to be able to support Rutland residents studying for a career in Farming. Each grant is awarded on merit and is a reflection of the tremendous contribution farmers make to the County of Rutland. We are gratified by the number of high calibre students applying for funding and wish them every success with their studies and future careers".

The Emma Molesworth Trust awards an annual Grant of up to £1,500 for long courses of a year or longer and up to £250 for short courses of less than a year. All courses will be assessed by the appointed Trustees as to whether the establishment and course meets the objectives of the Trust. Additionally other farm training or short courses will be considered on their own merit.

If you are interested in applying for a grant, please download an application form from the Rutland County Council website, which also has further information about terms and eligibility.

The Emma Molesworth Trust Fund is administered by Rutland County Council. These funds were originally bequeathed to the Council in 1965, to be used for the benefit of Rutland residents undertaking educational studies.